Putting the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl to Work
For years, I’ve been seeking that perfect balance of shot pattern density and spread for specific shooting applications, a quest that often feels like chasing a ghost. The need for a choke tube that could reliably deliver consistent patterns, particularly for medium-range engagements where precise shot placement is paramount, led me to explore various options. Among the contenders, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl stood out, promising a superior pattern by design. Its reputation for producing the “heaviest, round, shot pattern possible” certainly piqued my interest. I was particularly drawn to the idea of a hardened Modified Cylinder with added benefits from its unique design features. While I considered a few other aftermarket options, none seemed to offer the specific blend of hardening and porting that Kicks Industries advertises for this particular model. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, well-machined craftsmanship, suggesting a product built for longevity. This was a welcome relief after dealing with some less robust alternatives in the past.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing primarily took place at a local trap and skeet range, an environment that perfectly simulates the medium-range engagements this choke is designed for. I employed a variety of 12-gauge loads, ranging from standard field loads to specialized sporting clays ammunition, across a Remington 1100 platform fitted with the Rem Choke system. The choke threaded in smoothly, seating firmly with no discernible play. My first few rounds were spent assessing its performance with common clay targets. The ease of use was immediately apparent; it performed as expected right out of the box, requiring no special adjustments or break-in period. One surprising observation was the slight reduction in perceived recoil, which I attribute to the ported design managing gas efficiently.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months and numerous shooting sessions, the Kicks High Flyer choke tube has proven to be remarkably reliable. It has seen continuous use on the range, enduring hundreds of shells without any degradation in performance. I intentionally exposed it to dusty conditions and light moisture without immediate cleaning, and it still maintained its functional integrity. Durability is excellent; there are no visible signs of cracks, stiffness, or significant wear, even on the knurled end. Cleaning is straightforward, typically involving a simple bore brush and solvent after each session, which keeps the ports clear. Compared to some of the generic or less robust chokes I’ve used previously, this model demonstrates superior resilience and consistent pattern performance, definitely outperforming budget options in terms of consistency and pattern quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl is a precisely engineered component designed to optimize shotgun performance. It is constructed from hardened stainless steel, ensuring exceptional durability and resistance to wear, even under heavy use. This choke tube utilizes the widely adopted Remington Choke tube system, making it compatible with a broad range of Remington firearms and many other shotgun models that accept this standard. The choke type is specifically a Cylinder Modified configuration, offering a versatile balance between shot string length and spread. A key feature is its ported design, which serves to reduce muzzle jump and perceived recoil, contributing to a more comfortable and accurate shooting experience. The knurled end provides an enhanced grip for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands. This model features an elongated parallel section and specialized jets, contributing to increased energy transfer and more stable shot flight.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Kicks High Flyer choke tube is to deliver the densest, most consistent shot pattern possible, and it excels at this task. In practical shooting scenarios, it consistently produced tight, round patterns at ranges typically associated with a modified choke, often outperforming standard factory chokes in pattern uniformity. One significant strength is its ability to handle various pellet types, from lead to steel shot, with impressive consistency. Its ported design effectively manages gas, leading to less muzzle flip and a more stable follow-up shot, which is particularly beneficial in rapid shooting situations. While it performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose, it’s important to note that its primary focus is on pattern density rather than extreme constriction for long-range accuracy, which is inherent to its modified cylinder design.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl speaks to a focus on both performance and user convenience. The use of hardened stainless steel lends a substantial feel to the choke, indicating robust construction. Its black finish is subtle and functional, resisting glare. The knurled section at the end is not just for aesthetics; it provides excellent purchase for hand-tightening or removal, even when hands are cold or slick. The overall machining is precise, with clean lines and a smooth finish, indicative of quality manufacturing processes. There is virtually no learning curve; it installs like any other Rem Choke tube and functions seamlessly.
Durability & Maintenance
As a component made from hardened stainless steel, the durability of this choke tube is a significant advantage. I anticipate it will last for many years, even with frequent use in various conditions. The ported design, while beneficial, does require occasional cleaning to ensure the ports remain unobstructed for optimal performance. This is a simple process involving a brush and solvent. There are no obvious points of failure in the design itself; the primary wear will be on the threads and potentially the muzzle end if mishandled. Unlike some thinner chokes, its construction feels inherently robust, reducing concerns about accidental damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks High Flyer choke tube is a standalone component and does not typically come with additional accessories. Its customization comes in its design and the fact that it is a replacement part for the existing choke system of compatible shotguns. The key “customization” is selecting the correct choke type, and in this case, the Cylinder Modified provides a versatile middle ground. It is designed specifically for the Remington Choke tube system, meaning it will integrate with shotguns that use this standard.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl
Pros
- Superior Pattern Density: Delivers a noticeably tighter and more uniform shot pattern compared to standard chokes, improving hit probability.
- Hardened Stainless Steel Construction: Offers excellent durability, corrosion resistance, and longevity under demanding use.
- Ported Design: Effectively reduces muzzle jump and perceived recoil for a more comfortable and controllable shooting experience.
- Easy Installation and Removal: Features a knurled end for a secure grip, simplifying the process even in challenging conditions.
- Remington Choke Compatibility: Widely compatible with numerous shotguns utilizing the popular Remington Choke system.
Cons
- Specific Use Case: Primarily designed for medium-range applications; may not be ideal for very tight patterning needs or purely cylinder bore scenarios.
- Price Point: While offering significant value, it represents a higher initial investment than basic factory chokes.
- Requires Cleaning: The ported design necessitates regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance, though this is a minor undertaking.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl?
This choke tube is an excellent choice for sporting clays enthusiasts, wing shooters, and general-purpose shotgunners who are looking to optimize their firearm’s performance at medium ranges. If you are seeking a more consistent and dense shot pattern without sacrificing too much spread, this hardened stainless steel component is a strong contender. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate the benefits of recoil reduction and improved shot string stability.
However, individuals seeking a dedicated turkey choke for extreme long-range precision or those who only ever use their shotgun with a pure cylinder bore might find other options more suitable. For anyone using a Remington-compatible shotgun and wanting a noticeable upgrade in pattern performance, the Kicks High Flyer choke tube is a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl is a standout component for any shotgun owner looking to enhance their shooting experience. Its robust construction from hardened stainless steel, coupled with its intelligently designed ported cylinder modified pattern, delivers tangible improvements in shot pattern density and recoil management. After extensive real-world testing, it has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade over standard factory chokes, particularly for those engaging targets at medium distances. The ease of installation and maintenance further adds to its appeal.
Considering its performance benefits and the quality of its build, the price point of $67.79 is well justified, offering excellent value for the discerning shooter. I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to anyone who owns a compatible shotgun and is serious about refining their accuracy and comfort. It’s not just an accessory; it’s an enhancement that brings out the best in your shotgun.